TJ Young

TJ Young entered life March 9, 1937, born to the union of Steve and Mary Young in Vance, Mississippi. He was one of five siblings and was preceded in death by his older brother James Lee Smith his sisters Martha Kroger and Polly King. He has one living sibling, his younger brother, Arthur Davis (Valerie).

He confessed his life to Christ at an early age, being baptized at Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Batesville, Mississippi. TJ relocated to Chicago in 1955. He gained employment and a place to live, however he never forgot the family he left behind in Mississippi. Due to increasing tensions in the south, he returned to bring his family to Chicago. He continued in his endeavor until he had his entire family here.

TJ was the beloved husband of Linda Young for 46 years. He worked for Minnesota Mining Manufacturing Company (3M) for over 30 years. After he retired he spent many hours creating and caring for his beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. His plants flourished so well it was evident he had a green thumb. His second hobby was collecting antique cars. He also enjoyed listening to old school music and blues. He loved the Chicago Cubs and Bears. Many times you would see him perched in front of the television watching either team’s seasonal games or playoffs. He was at his happiest when entertaining his family and friends which resulted in extremely large gatherings at his house.

TJ departed this life on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. He led an interesting life, even working alongside of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Jesse Jackson, Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement in an organization called Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle who was the patriarch of his family. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

TJ will be forever cherished in the lives of his children: TJ Young, Jr. (deceased), Beverly Love, Dinah Williams (Willie), Steve Little, and Julius Little; 24 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren; dearly devoted family members and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.